BackPOLITICS
Over 700 citizens write to EC alleging Modi address violated MCC, seek action
More than 700 signatories, including former officials, academics, activists and journalists, accused PM Modi's April 18 national address of violate MCC and asked the Election Commission to investigate and take remedial action. The complaint, dated April 20, cites use of government media platforms and demands equal airtime for other parties if such telecast was allowed. The MCC context and upcoming state elections are noted in the article.
Why It Matters
The case centers on compliance with the Model Code of Conduct and the fairness of electoral campaigning, highlighting concerns about government media use and unequal access to public broadcasters.
Timeline
6 Events
Vote counting scheduled for May 4
April 20, 2026
Votes will be counted for all the mentioned assembly elections on May 4, 2026.
West Bengal polling scheduled on April 23 and 29
April 20, 2026
West Bengal's assembly polls are scheduled on April 23 and April 29, 2026.
Tamil Nadu polling scheduled on April 23
April 20, 2026
The article notes that Tamil Nadu's assembly polls are scheduled on April 23, 2026.
Complaint to EC alleging MCC violation by Modi address
April 20, 2026
In a complaint dated April 20, more than 700 signatories, including former civil servants, academics, activists and journalists, claim the address violated the MCC and seek a probe and remedial action. The letter was addressed to the Chief Election Commissioner and also urged for equal airtime on public broadcasters for other parties if prior permission for the telecast had been granted.
PM Modi's national address broadcast on official channels
April 18, 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's national address on April 18, 2026, was broadcast on official platforms such as Doordarshan, Sansad TV and All India Radio.
MCC in force; voting held in Assam, Kerala and Puducherry
April 9, 2026
The article states that the MCC is currently in force in Assam, Kerala and Puducherry, where voting was held on April 9.